Characterizing stewardship and stakeholder inclusion in data analytics efforts: the collaborative approach of Kansas City, Missouri

Abstract

Purpose Local governments face increasingly complex challenges related to their internal operations as well as the provision of public services. However, research on how they embrace evidence-based approaches such as data analytics practices, which could help them face some of those challenges, is still scarce. This study aims to contribute to existing knowledge by examining the data analytics practices in Kansas City, Missouri (KCMO), a city that has become prominent for engaging in data analytics use through the Bloomberg’s What Works Cities (WWC) initiative with the purpose of improving efficiency and enhancing response to local constituents. Design/methodology/approach This research conducted semistructured interviews with public servants who had data analytics experience at KCMO. Analysis looked for common and emerging patterns across transcripts. A conceptual framework based on related studies is built and used as the theoretical basis to assess the evidence observed in the case. Findings Findings suggest that data analytics practices are sponsored by organizational leadership, but fostered by data stewards who engage other stakeholders and incorporate data resources in their analytical initiatives as they tackle important questions. Those stewards collaborate to nurture inclusive networks that leverage knowledge from previous experiences to orient current analytical endeavors. Research limitations/implications This study explores the experience of a single city, so it does not account for successes and failures of similar local governments that were also part of Bloomberg's WWC. Furthermore, the fact that selected interviewees were involved in data analytics at least to some extent increases the likelihood that their experience with data analytics is relatively more positive than the experience of other local government employees. Practical implications Results suggest that data analytics benefits from leadership support and steering initiatives such as WWC, but also from leveraging stakeholder knowledge through collaborative networks to have access to data and organizational resources. The interplay of data analytics sponsored activities and organizational knowledge could be used as means of assessing local governments’ existing data analytics capability. Originality/value This study suggests that data analytics practices in local governments that are implementing a smart city agenda are knowledge-driven and developed incrementally through inclusive networks that leverage stakeholder knowledge and data resources. The incrementality identified suggests that data analytics initiatives should not be considered a “blank slate” practice, but an endeavor driven and sustained by data stewards who leverage stakeholder knowledge and data resources through collaborative networks.